There comes a time in every professionalās journey when youāre told ānoā, not because your work lacked value, not because your qualifications were insufficient, but for reasons that go unspoken. Those moments test everything: your resilience, your sense of justice, and your willingness to fight for what you know is right.
Recently, I encountered a series of barriers that could have easily made me give up. I was denied approval in a process that should have been straightforward. I met every requirement, exceeded expectations, and came prepared with data, credentials, and a long-standing track record of success. But that wasnāt enough.
I submitted a professional appeal in response to a decision that I firmly believe was rooted in bias and conflict of interest. Despite presenting undeniable evidence and meeting every qualification, the initial appeal was denied. But that didnāt stop me. I am now appealing to a higher level, because I will not take ānoā for an answer when I know the decision is unjust. I chose to advocate for myself with facts, with professionalism, and with unwavering purpose. Because staying silent is never the answer when youāre dismissed unfairly.
Separately, I had been turned down by a major company I was hoping to partner with, another unexpected roadblock. Again, I knew I had done everything right. I didnāt push back with frustration. Instead, I followed up, stayed patient, stayed visible, and stayed professional. This morning, I received the email Iād been waiting for: the finance department had approved my company. That ānoā turned into a āyesā, not by chance, but because I refused to go away quietly.
As I continue to await the outcome of my state-level appeal, I stand strong in the same mindset: sometimes, you have to fight, not with punches, but with professionalism and persistence.
The lesson? When doors close unfairly, donāt walk away discouraged. Donāt accept ānoā when your gut, your facts, and your integrity tell you otherwise. Be persistent. Be professional. And most importantly, stand up for yourself, because no one else is going to do it for you. Advocacy is not aggression. Speaking up is not disrespectful. And seeking fairness is not complaining. Itās called courage.
No, this isnāt the first timeāand it certainly wonāt be the lastāthat I write about the roadblocks, barriers, and obstacles Iāve encountered, and will likely continue to face, on my journey. But I donāt let a single one stop me. On the contrary, they become fuel for my fire. Let this be your reminder: donāt let anything, or anyone, stand in the way of your goals. Every challenge is an opportunity to rise stronger, louder, and more determined.
Elga Lejarza
Founder & CEO
HRGreenHouse.org
